By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) has offered technical support to the Nigerian Air Force following the crash of an ATR-42 military aircraft in the Igbokoda area of Ondo State on Monday.
The NSIB, in a statement signed by its Director General and Chief Executive Officer, Captain Alex Badeh Jr., said it received reports of the accident involving the Nigerian Air Force aircraft on October 5, 2026.
According to the Bureau, the Nigerian Air Force confirmed that the aircraft was on a routine mission from Benin to Lagos when the accident occurred, prompting the activation of search and rescue operations in coordination with relevant authorities and emergency response agencies.
The NSIB expressed condolences to the Nigerian Air Force and the families and colleagues of those on board, while commending the search and rescue teams and first responders involved in the operation.
The Bureau said it was ready to provide technical assistance to the Air Force upon request, including deploying investigators and using its Flight Safety Laboratory for the recovery, readout and analysis of flight recorder data.
It, however, clarified that because the incident involved a military aircraft, investigative responsibility rests with the Nigerian Air Force.
“The Bureau will provide assistance upon a formal request from the Air Force,” the statement said.
The NSIB urged members of the public to rely exclusively on official updates from the Nigerian Air Force concerning the rescue operation and any subsequent investigation.
It added that further comments from the Bureau would be issued only when appropriate and in consultation with the Nigerian Air Force.
